Sun. 5/17: COVID-19 Daily Update

NEWS HIGHLIGHTS

Not Simply a ‘Natural Disaster’ (Part 1 of a 3-part series on the economics of the coronavirus) – Labor Notes. 

How the Coronavirus Crisis Became an Economic Crisis (Part 2 of a 3-part series on the economics of the coronavirus) – Labor Notes. 

The two articles above explain how and why the coronavirus could be worse under our current economic system than it would with alternative systems. Part 3 isn’t out, yet.

Trump Salutes Long Island Protest Where “Hang Fauci” Sign Was Displayed – The Intercept. 

Trump tweeted in support of a protest where there were people openly calling for the murders of Dr. Anthony Fauci and Bill Gates, many of whom were militia members or anti-vaxxers spouting conspiracy theories. Some protestors menaced a reporter who was there covering their story (who himself had actually gotten sick with COVID-19 and recovered).

Federal Government Buys Riot Gear, Increases Security Funding, Citing Coronavirus Pandemic – The Intercept. 

The U.S. government is stocking up on weapons intended solely for use against its own citizens.

Being an “Essential Worker” Won’t Save You From Deportation – In These Times. 

Excerpt: “Although he’s been deemed “essential,” José is not entitled to protective gear, compensation, federal financial aid or safeguards from immigration agents. For several weeks, José actually worked without protective equipment.”

COVID Cases Today

World: Cases: 4.7M (+100k).  Deaths: 315k (+4k).
USA: Cases: 1.48M (+20k).  Deaths: 89.5k (+800).  Total Tested: 11.5M (+500k).
Hawaii: Cases:  640 (+1).  Deaths: 17 (+0).  Hospitalized: 82 (+0). Recovered: 573 (+1).